The 28-year-old New Zealander has helped the Waikato-based Chiefs win two Super Rugby titles.

And he is set to follow Waratahs wing Peter Betham, whose signing was confirmed by the Tigers on Monday, to Welford Road next season.

Leicester rugby director Richard Cockerill said: " Mike will be a good addition to our group of locks, especially with the retirement of Louis Deacon and Brad Thorn.

"He has played in very good company at the Chiefs, and now wants the experience of playing rugby in Europe."

And Fitzgerald added: " I have loved my time playing for the Chiefs and the (Manawatu) Turbos in New Zealand, but feel it's the right time to make the move with my young family across to the United Kingdom."

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